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Hostels in Cairns

Find the hostels that appeal to you the most

The best hostels in Cairns

Some of the best backpacker spots in Cairns

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Review score

Travellers Oasis

Cairns

Conveniently situated in the heart of Cairns, opposite the Cairns Central Shopping Centre and Cairns train station, Travellers Oasis presents an inviting accommodation option featuring an outdoor...

L
Laura Insa
From
Spain
I don’t really like hostels and sharing spaces as I’ve been in way too many at this point. Nevertheless this place is my favourite in Cairns, and probably in Australia too. Sharing kitchen is always clean, enough and clean bathrooms, superb staff, people really respects the rules, quiet at night and absolutely comfy beds. Makes me feel like in a little home.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
Price from
US$89.21
1 night, 2 adults

Dreamtime Hostel

Cairns

Dreamtime is an award winning hostel with a difference. We offer travellers a safe, peaceful & cosy place to stay. We are not a party hostel.

d
diaverde
From
Colombia
Excellent place to stay, probably the best I had in my whole trip around Australia. It was a quiet place but very conveniently located just steps away from the bus/train station. It serves a perfect amount of guests, not few so you can't meet people, but not many so it feels cramped. It also has several toilets, kitchens and common rooms distributed around the house, so it helps. But what shines the most about this place is their owners, the kindness and good will they put when interacting with the guests and helping them with every need they might have. Thanks for all your help!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,158 reviews
Price from
US$74.35
1 night, 2 adults

Travellers Paradise

Cairns

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, Travellers Paradise offers accommodation in a historical, heritage listed Guest House in Cairns, 1.2 km from Cairns Convention Centre.

J
Jazmin
From
Argentina
Peter is super kind and helpful, he assisted me during my arrival late on night, the day after he offered me to leave my luggage for few hours as needed and comeback later for coffee:)
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,310 reviews
Price from
US$61.56
1 night, 2 adults

Mad Monkey Village

Cairns

Refurbished in May, 2018, Mad Monkey Village featuresa TV, a kitchen, bathrooms with air-conditioners in every room. There is also an outdoor swimming pool. Free WiFi provided.

S
Sasa
From
Australia
The bed is comfortable, the rooms are clean. The staff is friendly.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,092 reviews
Price from
US$76.61
1 night, 2 adults

Mumma's Hostel Cairns

Cairns

Mumma's Hostel Cairns has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and terrace in Cairns.

L
Lucia
From
Andorra
The staff is super friendly and helpful :) Everyone is very friendly :)
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 584 reviews
Price from
US$72.52
1 night, 2 adults

Little Drifter Cairns

Cairns

Set in Cairns and with Cairns Convention Centre reachable within less than 1 km, Little Drifter Cairns offers express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout...

S
Soledad
From
Argentina
New and modern building, very comfortable and has everything you need. The kitchen is well equipped
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 217 reviews
Price from
US$130.85
1 night, 2 adults

Mad Monkey Jungle

Cairns

Mad Monkey Jungle is a resort style hostel, featuring FREE ultra fast WIFI. Centrally located in the heart of Cairns and is only a short walk to all the major attractions.

S
Sofi
From
Spain
From the moment I arrived at hostel, I knew I found something truly special. This place isn’t just a hostel, it’s a family. I came as a traveler, but left feeling like I found a second home. The staff? Absolutely incredible. Warm, welcoming, and making sure every guest feels not only comfortable but connected. Whether it was a smile at check-in, helpful travel tips, or late night laughs, they brought heart and soul to every interaction. The vibe here is effortlessly social. I met people from all over the world and shared unforgettable moments. There’s something about this place that makes it so easy to be yourself. The facilities are clean, comfy beds, great common areas, and a perfect mix between chill and party. I can’t recommend Mad Monkey Jungle enough. If you’re looking for more than just a bed, this is where you need to be. I came for the jungle, but I stayed for the people!!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 767 reviews
Price from
US$45.15
1 night, 2 adults

Caravella Backpackers

Cairns

Ideally located in the scenic and quieter area of the Esplanade- away from the noise of the clubs, bars and traffic- but only an easy 10 minute walk to the main attractions, the Pier and Cairns City...

T
Thomas
From
United Kingdom
Very friendly staff, great facilities and a perfect location.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 573 reviews
Price from
US$78.64
1 night, 2 adults

Summer House Cairns

Cairns

Summer House Cairns features free bikes, outdoor swimming pool, a garden and shared lounge in Cairns.

A
Alice
From
France
I really liked the bedroom, with A/C it’s very cool inside and the beds are confortable ! There are way enough showers/toilets for everyone at anytime, and the kitchen is big enough aswell. The weekly activities are very fun and a good way to meet new people ! There’s free pancakes on Sunday morning (Yum Yum !) The hostel is up North but there is a shuttle every 30 mins to get to the center, you are here in 5 minutes it’s cool 👍 The team is very kind and always helpful
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.5
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,699 reviews
Price from
US$47.18
1 night, 2 adults

The Jack Backpackers

Cairns

Guests enjoy FREE WIFI, NEW Air Cons, FREE Lockers, FREE Netflix available in common lounge area & private ensuite rooms with an on-site bar and restaurant downstairs!

V
Viola-Marie
From
Germany
I am completely satisfied. The price-performance ratio is perfect, the location is ideal and the staff is incredibly helpful and friendly. I would come back immediately!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.2
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,733 reviews
Price from
US$52.83
1 night, 2 adults
All hostels in Cairns

Top picks for Cairns hotels

Explore our most popular hotels in Cairns

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,158 reviews
    From
    US$74
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
    Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,310 reviews
    From
    US$62
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.8
    Good - What previous guests thought, 2,411 reviews
    From
    US$78
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.2
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,733 reviews
    From
    US$53
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 584 reviews
    From
    US$64
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
    Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 573 reviews
    From
    US$79
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.5
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,699 reviews
    From
    US$47
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 217 reviews
    From
    US$131
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
    From
    US$89
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.7
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,673 reviews
    From
    US$134
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.0
    Good - What previous guests thought, 657 reviews
    From
    US$50
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.2
    Good - What previous guests thought, 296 reviews
    From
    US$65
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,092 reviews
    From
    US$77
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.8
    Good - What previous guests thought, 543 reviews
    From
    US$75
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.3
    Good - What previous guests thought, 535 reviews
    From
    US$53
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 767 reviews
    From
    US$45
    1 night, 2 adults
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.3
    Good - What previous guests thought, 184 reviews
    From
    US$47
    1 night, 2 adults

Filter by:

Review score

Travellers Oasis

Cairns

Conveniently situated in the heart of Cairns, opposite the Cairns Central Shopping Centre and Cairns train station, Travellers Oasis presents an inviting accommodation option featuring an outdoor...

L
Laura Insa
From
Spain
I don’t really like hostels and sharing spaces as I’ve been in way too many at this point. Nevertheless this place is my favourite in Cairns, and probably in Australia too. Sharing kitchen is always clean, enough and clean bathrooms, superb staff, people really respects the rules, quiet at night and absolutely comfy beds. Makes me feel like in a little home.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
Price from
US$89.21
1 night, 2 adults

Dreamtime Hostel

Cairns

Dreamtime is an award winning hostel with a difference. We offer travellers a safe, peaceful & cosy place to stay. We are not a party hostel.

d
diaverde
From
Colombia
Excellent place to stay, probably the best I had in my whole trip around Australia. It was a quiet place but very conveniently located just steps away from the bus/train station. It serves a perfect amount of guests, not few so you can't meet people, but not many so it feels cramped. It also has several toilets, kitchens and common rooms distributed around the house, so it helps. But what shines the most about this place is their owners, the kindness and good will they put when interacting with the guests and helping them with every need they might have. Thanks for all your help!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,158 reviews
Price from
US$74.35
1 night, 2 adults

Travellers Paradise

Cairns

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, Travellers Paradise offers accommodation in a historical, heritage listed Guest House in Cairns, 1.2 km from Cairns Convention Centre.

J
Jazmin
From
Argentina
Peter is super kind and helpful, he assisted me during my arrival late on night, the day after he offered me to leave my luggage for few hours as needed and comeback later for coffee:)
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,310 reviews
Price from
US$61.56
1 night, 2 adults

Mad Monkey Village

Cairns

Refurbished in May, 2018, Mad Monkey Village featuresa TV, a kitchen, bathrooms with air-conditioners in every room. There is also an outdoor swimming pool. Free WiFi provided.

S
Sasa
From
Australia
The bed is comfortable, the rooms are clean. The staff is friendly.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,092 reviews
Price from
US$76.61
1 night, 2 adults

Mumma's Hostel Cairns

Cairns

Mumma's Hostel Cairns has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and terrace in Cairns.

L
Lucia
From
Andorra
The staff is super friendly and helpful :) Everyone is very friendly :)
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 584 reviews
Price from
US$72.52
1 night, 2 adults

Little Drifter Cairns

Cairns

Set in Cairns and with Cairns Convention Centre reachable within less than 1 km, Little Drifter Cairns offers express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout...

S
Soledad
From
Argentina
New and modern building, very comfortable and has everything you need. The kitchen is well equipped
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 217 reviews
Price from
US$130.85
1 night, 2 adults

Mad Monkey Jungle

Cairns

Mad Monkey Jungle is a resort style hostel, featuring FREE ultra fast WIFI. Centrally located in the heart of Cairns and is only a short walk to all the major attractions.

S
Sofi
From
Spain
From the moment I arrived at hostel, I knew I found something truly special. This place isn’t just a hostel, it’s a family. I came as a traveler, but left feeling like I found a second home. The staff? Absolutely incredible. Warm, welcoming, and making sure every guest feels not only comfortable but connected. Whether it was a smile at check-in, helpful travel tips, or late night laughs, they brought heart and soul to every interaction. The vibe here is effortlessly social. I met people from all over the world and shared unforgettable moments. There’s something about this place that makes it so easy to be yourself. The facilities are clean, comfy beds, great common areas, and a perfect mix between chill and party. I can’t recommend Mad Monkey Jungle enough. If you’re looking for more than just a bed, this is where you need to be. I came for the jungle, but I stayed for the people!!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 767 reviews
Price from
US$45.15
1 night, 2 adults

Caravella Backpackers

Cairns

Ideally located in the scenic and quieter area of the Esplanade- away from the noise of the clubs, bars and traffic- but only an easy 10 minute walk to the main attractions, the Pier and Cairns City...

T
Thomas
From
United Kingdom
Very friendly staff, great facilities and a perfect location.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 573 reviews
Price from
US$78.64
1 night, 2 adults

Summer House Cairns

Cairns

Summer House Cairns features free bikes, outdoor swimming pool, a garden and shared lounge in Cairns.

A
Alice
From
France
I really liked the bedroom, with A/C it’s very cool inside and the beds are confortable ! There are way enough showers/toilets for everyone at anytime, and the kitchen is big enough aswell. The weekly activities are very fun and a good way to meet new people ! There’s free pancakes on Sunday morning (Yum Yum !) The hostel is up North but there is a shuttle every 30 mins to get to the center, you are here in 5 minutes it’s cool 👍 The team is very kind and always helpful
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.5
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,699 reviews
Price from
US$47.18
1 night, 2 adults

The Jack Backpackers

Cairns

Guests enjoy FREE WIFI, NEW Air Cons, FREE Lockers, FREE Netflix available in common lounge area & private ensuite rooms with an on-site bar and restaurant downstairs!

V
Viola-Marie
From
Germany
I am completely satisfied. The price-performance ratio is perfect, the location is ideal and the staff is incredibly helpful and friendly. I would come back immediately!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.2
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,733 reviews
Price from
US$52.83
1 night, 2 adults
All hostels in Cairns

Looking for a hostel?

Budget travellers know that there is no better way to make the most of their trip than by staying at a hostel: save money for exploring during the day, and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening. Dorm-style bedrooms with shared bathrooms are standard hostel fare, but private rooms are also available for those willing to pay a bit more.

Most booked hostels in Cairns and surroundings in the past month

See all

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 767 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 584 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 575 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 217 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.7
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,673 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.2
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,733 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.8
Good - What previous guests thought, 2,411 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,844 reviews

Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.5
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,699 reviews

Save money on hostels in Cairns and nearby – budget options available

Mad Monkey Central

Cairns
Budget options available
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.3
Good - What previous guests thought, 535 reviews

Kick back and enjoy a refreshing drink at our outdoor bar, serving up budget-friendly sips including locally brewed Coral Sea beer – perfect for those chilled pre-drinks to easily meet other...

From US$64.45 per night

The Espy Hostel

Cairns
Budget options available
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.2
Good - What previous guests thought, 296 reviews

The Espy Hostel in Cairns provides adults-only accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool and a shared lounge.

From US$65.42 per night

Mad Monkey Waterfront

Cairns
Budget options available
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.8
Good - What previous guests thought, 543 reviews

You simply can't beat our location – we're directly on the vibrant Cairns Esplanade, with the stunning Cairns Lagoon just across the street!

Global Backpackers Cairns

Cairns
Budget options available
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,844 reviews

Situated in Cairns and with Cairns Station reachable within 1.1 km, Global Backpackers Cairns features a tour desk, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a terrace.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 133 reviews

Featuring barbecue facilities, MiHaven Shared Living - Martyn St is set in Cairns in the Queensland region, 1.3 km from Cairns Station and 2.4 km from Cairns Convention Centre.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
Good - What previous guests thought, 42 reviews

Set in Cairns, 1.4 km from Cairns Station, MiHaven Shared Living - Pembroke St offers accommodation with a garden, private parking, a shared lounge and barbecue facilities.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 17 reviews

Located in Cairns and with Cairns Station reachable within 1.5 km, MiHaven Shared Living - Gatton St provides a garden, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a shared lounge.

Bohemia Resort Cairns

Cairns
Budget options available
Scored out of 10, guest rating 6.6
Pleasant - What previous guests thought, 837 reviews

Bohemia Resort Cairns provides accommodation close to the Cairns city centre. There is a large outdoor undercover area overlooking the lagoon-style pools and landscaped gardens.

Great access to the city centre. Check these hostels in Cairns and nearby

Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.7
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,673 reviews

2024 Renovation Revelation: A Bold Makeover Journey Begins – Brace Yourself for an Entirely Revamped Bathroom Experience!

From US$148.69 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.0
Good - What previous guests thought, 657 reviews

Located in Cairns, 700 metres from Cairns Station, Cairns City Backpackers Hostel provides air-conditioned rooms and a garden.

FAQ about hostels in Cairns

Hostels that guests love in Cairns

See all
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 767 reviews
Best hostel in Cairns. Super social, nice events and cheap drinks at the bar. Location is in the heart of the city and you can literally walk everywhere in 5 minutes. Will definetly be back one day
Guest review by
Piccioni
Solo traveller
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,844 reviews
In addition to the great location of the hostel, I really enjoyed the kitchen and common area on the top level. It's a great way to connect with people throughout the hostel. They do make sure that the hostel stays safe, asking all backpackers not to bring guests or people from outside.
Guest review by
Jacqueline
Solo traveller
Avg. price/night: US$89.21
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
This is a very nice hostel. The building has everything you need. They take great care for everyday cleanings. My dorm was mixed with bunk beds. There’s a safe under the bed for each person. Sheets were clean, and so the bathrooms.
Guest review by
Vittoria
Solo traveller
Avg. price/night: US$82.61
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,158 reviews
This was the best hostel I’ve been so far. I stayed in the upstairs dorms which are very nice. With just 4/5 beds per room (not bunk beds for once). The building is not new but really nice with great vibes! Everybody was so chill…The common areas are great and the staff is awesome: thanks to Tim, Paul and Chelsea for what they do!
Guest review by
Vittoria
Solo traveller
Avg. price/night: US$64.45
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.3
Good - What previous guests thought, 535 reviews
The breakfast was great, the hostel is extremely clean, i loved the common area, it’s so social I met lots of new people. The beds were extremely comfortable and everyone from staff is so nice and helpful. One of the best hostels I‘ve stayed in, also perfectly located, only 5-10 minute walk anywhere you wanna go. Really great hostel!!
Guest review by
Sarah
Solo traveller
Avg. price/night: US$89.21
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
Best hostel I stayed in Australia! Staff is great, super helpful and thoughtful! The hostel is super clean and bedrooms comfortable. Stayed in a 3-bed dormitory and I felt like home. You can also feel that this place is so special that it creates a very calm ambiance amongst guests. There are different common areas/kitchens for each group of bedrooms. The hostel is located just beside the bus station and a commercial center where there is a supermarket and some stores open until 10 Pm.
Guest review by
Nathalie
Solo traveller
Avg. price/night: US$148.69
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.7
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,673 reviews
very Social place if you like to party, cheap drinks for hostel guests. was pretty clean and even had a little workout room; pool area is very big and chill great location next to Rusty’s Market
Guest review by
Victoria
Solo traveller
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,844 reviews
Kitchen has a terrace which looks across the esplanade, so nice to sit & cook up there. Each floor of rooms had a sofa area outside to chill which I’ve never seen in a hostel before & was great to have a space other than your bunk bed. Great location & cheap
Guest review by
Nahum
Young couple